By Dr. Carla Ericksen, Beyond Vision LNK
Did you know that what you put on your plate can impact what you see? June is Dairy Month—a perfect time to celebrate the wholesome goodness of dairy and its benefits not just for your bones, but for your vision, too!
At Beyond Vision LNK, we’re passionate about educating our patients on the connection between nutrition and eye health. As an optometrist, I’m often asked what foods help support good eyesight. While leafy greens and colorful vegetables usually steal the spotlight, dairy deserves a standing ovation of its own.
The Vision Benefits of Dairy
Here’s how dairy can support your eye health:
1. Vitamin A for Retinal Health
Milk and other dairy products are rich in Vitamin A, a crucial nutrient for maintaining the health of your cornea and retina. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to dry eyes, night blindness, and even more serious conditions over time.
2. Zinc for Night Vision
Dairy products, especially cheese and milk, contain zinc, which helps transport Vitamin A from the liver to the retina, where it’s used to produce melanin—a protective pigment in the eyes. Zinc also supports night vision and may help slow age-related macular degeneration.
3. Calcium for Eye Muscle Function
We often think of calcium for bone health, but it also plays a role in the function of muscles, including the tiny muscles that control eye movement and focusing.
4. Riboflavin (B2) to Reduce Eye Fatigue
Milk is a good source of riboflavin, a B vitamin that helps reduce eye strain and light sensitivity. If you spend long hours on screens or reading, adequate B2 can be a helpful ally.
What If You’re Dairy-Free?
Not everyone can or chooses to consume dairy. If you’re lactose intolerant or follow a dairy-free lifestyle, many plant-based milks are now fortified with the same nutrients—just be sure to read the label to check for added calcium, Vitamin A, and B vitamins.
Take Care of Your Eyes This June
June Dairy Month is more than just a reason to enjoy a cold glass of milk or a scoop of yogurt—it’s a reminder that what we eat plays a vital role in how we see the world.
If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, now is a great time to schedule one. At Beyond Vision LNK, we’ll help you look beyond 20/20 vision to your overall eye health—with a holistic, personalized approach.
Happy Dairy Month from all of us at Beyond Vision LNK!